Can anyone help with some custom made grips please? I'm keen to see what's out there but more specifically in the EVA style to keep things light.
I'm looking at the Carbon fibre grips and the mad swirls but am concerned both add a bit of weight. Neither are issues for some builds so I may get some but I also want to make a light build and don't want to add too much for that particular rod. I was looking at some Camo grips but would be interested in others. The only ones I've seen so far are the grained grips.

Also, on the subject of the carbon fibre and mad swirls, how do they stand up over time? I'm wondering how the polished coating stands up to scratching etc., especially from the rod holder.

have you taken a look at the photo page

Bill - willierods.com

What most term "carbon fiber" grips are carbon skins over a lightweight, rigid foam core. They're about the lightest grips you can put on a rod and they're quite durable. Finished with PermaGloss or Lumaseal, they're almost impossible to scratch.

Check with Mike Pedersen at Riley Rods. His grips are routinely used in rod holders. He's a sponsor here and can set you up with either the finished grips or the stuff to make your own.

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Thanks Tom. They're the ones.I've already emailed him. I watched a video of his and I got the impression after seeing Epoxy getting used that hey would have been heavier. Good to know they are vey light and durable. I should hear back soon so will be keen to see what the options are.
Billy I have seen your pics, is there any in particular you were referring too?



Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 04/07/2014 08:01AM by Mark Gwynne.

Mark, check out some of my custom inlayed EVA grips. I've done heaps. If you want hard but good quality EVA in the camo grips, Matagi does THE best I've seen and used.

Regards
Mark
Outback Rods

[www.rodbuilding.org]
[www.rodbuilding.org]
[www.rodbuilding.org]
[www.rodbuilding.org]

The epoxy is used for wetting out the carbon. There's really not much there. Not sure what Mike uses for top coating but I use PermaGloss, one thin coat, and it's certainly not going to add any appreciable weight. Figure these weigh about what regular cork grips weigh, or perhaps just a tad less.

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MArk, I don't even know what I typed to you, sorry.

It wasn't you Billy V. Someone else with same first name.

Freddwhy (Rapt-Ryte)

I just got some carbon fiber grips made by Mike at Riley Rods and they are fantastic and very light. He does a great job.

The mad-swirl grips I am making are the same as the carbon fiber grips minus the carbon sleeving. They come in as light as cork and offer great sensitivity. I get my pour foam and epoxy from Riley Rods. If you have any questions about how to do them or need any paint, feel free to give me a shout or shoot me an email. 502.439.4123 ReedRods@gmail.com

Jeremy Reed
Reed Rods

Also, to answer your questions about longevity, so far I have not had any issues. I have some 6lbs foam I'm testing without any issues, but I generally recommend 8lb foam for the added stiffness since there isn't a sleeve over it.

If you want to try something different, you can also Mad-Swirl over carbon fiber sleeving by taping off various parts of the grip then swirling and removing the tape.

Jeremy Reed
Reed Rods

So how do both grips go for actual grip? The rear is clearly fine but I'm wondering how the foregrip will be be with the polished type of finish. Does it get slippery?

no

Smooth and slippery aren't the same thing. Hammer handles of smooth, varnished wood don't get slippery, for instance. Grip is more about shape than anything else.

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Hey Billy,

Mate I didn't get anything at all from you. Hopefully it was all good!

Best Regards
Mark